Juventus are preparing a formal offer for free agent Franck Kessie, with ongoing discussions with the Ivorian midfielder stretching back months. The club, according to reports, is attempting to accelerate negotiations with the former AC Milan player, who recently concluded a spell in Saudi Arabia. Kessie is reportedly keen on a return to Italy and a reunion with Juventus director Frederic Massara, with whom he previously won the Serie A title at Milan under Stefano Pioli.
Kessie’s wage demands are significant, reportedly including a €5 million salary, alongside commission and a signing bonus, leading Juventus to proceed cautiously. The club views this move as a demonstration of their interest in a player who impressed at the recent World Cup and continues to attract offers from clubs in the Middle East. Juventus currently have a surplus of midfield options, including McKennie, Miretti, Locatelli, Douglas Luiz, Arthur, Thuram, Koopmeiners, and Adzic, and are hoping to appeal to Kessie with the promise of regular playing time.
Alongside the pursuit of Kessie, Juventus are also focused on strengthening their attack, with Randal Kolo Muani remaining their primary target. However, the club has set a firm deadline for Paris Saint-Germain to lower their asking price. Juventus director Giovanni Carnevali stated that the club will explore alternative options if an agreement cannot be reached, with PSG currently seeking a fee exceeding €45 million. Juventus have offered up to €40 million for Kolo Muani, and are unwilling to exceed €50 million.
Should the deal for Kolo Muani fall through, Juventus are considering Alexander Sorloth of Atletico Madrid and Folarin Balogun as potential alternatives. They are also monitoring Mateo Pellegrino at Parma, though a move for the Argentinian winger could depend on the departure of Denis David. Juventus are also exploring options in goal, with Aston Villa’s Emiliano Martinez and Tottenham’s Guglielmo Vicario both under consideration as potential replacements for the outgoing Alessio Di Gregorio.
This flurry of activity signals Juventus’s intent to rebuild their squad under new manager Luciano Spalletti, addressing both midfield depth and attacking firepower ahead of the upcoming season.
